Don't get locked out of your account! This guide will show you how to quickly link your National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) to your accounts at major Nigerian banks.
What's a Tier 1 Account?
Skip this section if you already know what a Tier 1 account is.
Tier 1 accounts are basic bank accounts with easy access but limitations. They often require minimal ID when opening but have restrictions like deposit and balance limits. Linking your BVN or NIN ensures compliance and strengthens security for these accounts.
Linking Your NIN and BVN
Here's how to link your NIN and BVN depending on your bank:
GTBank:
USSD: Dial 73720*BVN# from your registered phone number. (Note: This option might be under maintenance. See below.)
Website: Use GTBank's self-service portal (the link might need to be updated, check their website for updates).
Branch: Visit your nearest GTBank branch for in-person assistance. (**Recommended option as of March 8th, 2024)
UBA:
Leo Assistant: Message UBA's Leo assistant on Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, or Apple Messages. Search for "NIN update" in the prompts.
Website: Visit UBA's official website for instructions and find their self-service section.
Access Bank:
USSD: Dial 90111# on your registered phone and follow the prompts.
Social Media: Tweet your account number and a picture of your NIN slip to @myaccessbank on Twitter.
Website: Use the dedicated NIN/BVN linkage section on Access Bank's website.
Ecobank:
Website: Visit Ecobank's website and navigate to the Customer Update page. Provide your information and await a one-time password (OTP) via email. Upload your NIN slip and submit it.
Zenith Bank:
USSD: Dial 966NIN# and follow the prompts.
Internet Banking: Log in to Zenith's Internet banking portal and go to "Account." Choose "Update Account (NIN)" or "BVN Update" and fill out the required fields. (Note: Zenith's ZIVA chatbot cannot handle BVN/NIN linkage yet.)
Stanbic IBTC Bank:
Website: Log on to Stanbic IBTC's website and follow the on-screen instructions to input your NIN and BVN. Confirm and submit.
Opay:
App: In the Opay app, navigate to account limits and click "upgrade to tier 2 account." Follow the prompts to link your NIN.
WhatsApp: Message Opay support on WhatsApp (09165998936).
Branch: Visit any Opay office to complete the process.
FCMB:
Website: Visit the FCMB website and follow the on-screen instructions to link your NIN and BVN.
Linking from Abroad (Nigerian in Diaspora):
Online Banking: Many banks now allow linking via their websites or apps. Check your bank's online platforms for options.
Contact Customer Support: If online options aren't available, contact your bank's customer support (often via email) for specific instructions.
Virtual NIN (vNIN): If you only have a BVN, get a vNIN by dialing 346YourEnterpriseCode# on your registered Nigerian phone (find the Enterprise Code on the NIMC mobile app). Email your vNIN and any required documents to your bank's customer support for further instructions.
Important Reminders:
Procedures can differ between banks. Contact yours directly for the most up-to-date process.
You often need a registered Nigerian phone number to receive verification OTPs.
If you don't have a NIN, you can enroll through designated centres in your country of residence. Check the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) website for details.
By linking your NIN and BVN, you're securing your accounts and supporting a stronger Nigerian banking system.
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